A Christian Church in Pontiac,
Illinois Where You’re Family From Day One
If you’ve been searching for a place where worship feels genuine and people know your name, FBC Pontiac is for you. We’re a Christ-centered family serving Pontiac, Illinois with Sunday worship, Small Groups, and community outreach, including our weekly Food Pantry. From your very first visit, you'll be welcomed not as a guest, but as part of the family.
Join us this Sunday for worship and connection.
Letter from the Pastor
The Joyful Anticipation of Advent
As we approach the season of Advent, our hearts fill with a special kind of excitement. This is a time of joyful anticipation, a period where we prepare ourselves for the coming of Christ. Advent reminds us of the beauty and hope that come with waiting. In a world that often seeks instant gratification, Advent teaches us the value of patience, and the profound fulfillment that comes when our long-awaited hope is finally realized.
The word "Advent" itself means "coming" or "arrival." During these weeks, we reflect on the centuries of longing and expectation that preceded the birth of Jesus. Imagine the thrill and wonder experienced by those who first heard the angel's announcement of the Savior's birth. Their hope had been fulfilled; their wait was over.
Each Sunday of Advent is marked by the lighting of a candle, each symbolizing a different aspect of the season—hope, peace, joy, and love. As we light these candles, we remember that the light of Christ is steadily growing, preparing to shine brightly on Christmas day.
This season invites us to pause and reflect on our own journeys of waiting. Whether we are awaiting a personal breakthrough, the resolution of a challenging situation, or simply the celebration of Christmas, Advent encourages us to embrace the waiting. It is in the waiting that our faith is strengthened and our trust in God's timing deepens.
As we move through Advent, let us cherish the anticipation and find joy in the journey. Let us prepare our hearts and minds, welcoming the peace that surpasses all understanding and allowing the promise of Christ's birth to fill us with hope and fulfillment.
May this Advent season be a time of renewal and joy for you and your loved ones as we celebrate the wonderful news of Christ's coming.
In His Majesty’s Service,
Pastor Gene
WELCOME
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Classes and Groups
Faith grows best when we learn together. At FBC Pontiac, you’ll find:
From study to service, these groups help people of all ages become disciples of Jesus Christ while building meaningful friendships.
CALENDAR
Church Calendar
There’s a place for you every week. Join us Sundays at 10:00 am for worship and Communion on the first Sunday of each month. Stop by for Small Groups during the week, Food Pantry service on Wednesdays and Fridays, and special events on Saturdays. Our calendar makes it easy to stay connected.
ABOUT
About Our
Church
First Baptist Church of Pontiac is more than a Sunday service—it’s a community where faith grows deeper and friendships grow stronger. Our mission is simple: love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, love our neighbors as ourselves, and make disciples of Jesus Christ.
We serve our city with open hands. From providing groceries to families through our Food Pantry, connecting with you through social media, offering a library of 30,000+ Christian videos for families, to livestreaming worship for those at home. We meet people where they are.
Under the leadership of Rev. H. Gene Stringer, called as pastor in 2024, we continue to build on a legacy of more than 160 years of worship and service in Pontiac.
HISTORY
Our History
1866
The first permanent building was completed at Oak and Water Streets.
1894
A new church was dedicated at Livingston and Mill Streets.
1952
A Christian Educational Building was completed.
1993
Our sanctuary was built and dedicated, preserving stained glass windows from our former church.
1857
Rev. W. Branch and eight believers organized FBC Pontiac. Worship was held in homes, and baptisms took place in the Vermillion River.
1867
Sunday School began, laying the foundation for discipleship.
1921
Miss Lennie Rhodes became the first woman in Illinois ordained as a minister—here at FBC Pontiac.
1983
The present property, formerly Ladd Grade School, was purchased.
2024
Rev. H. Gene Stringer became pastor, leading us into a new chapter of ministry.
From living room gatherings in 1857 to our present sanctuary, FBC Pontiac
has carried forward a legacy of worship, discipleship, and service.
“The purpose of First Baptist Church is to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, and to love our neighbor as ourselves, to make disciples to Jesus Christ, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. We will use all available resources to nurture maturing faith including teaching, fellowship, prayer, encouragement and witnessing. We commit ourselves to regular worship, study, prayer, fellowship and acts of service.”
MEDIA
Media and Resources
Stay connected wherever you are. Watch sermons and worship services on YouTube and Facebook, follow us on Instagram for encouragement during the week, and scan the barcode below to enjoy our media library of 30,000+ Christian videos for families—a faith-filled streaming resource for every home.
LOCATION
Location
and Map
We’re located in the heart of Pontiac, Illinois at 515 N. Ladd Street Pontiac, Illinois 61764.
Parking is available on-site, and our building is fully accessible. Our welcome team will help you find your way from the parking lot to your seat so you can feel comfortable right away.
NEWSLETTER
Subscribe to Our Newsletter
Get encouragement and updates in your inbox. Our newsletter shares upcoming events, stories from the community, and messages of hope from our pastors.
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